It would be difficult to give a word by word analysis because it would be so utterly complicated. His phrasing is slightly unsual.
He is saying about earning the right to take and give "poignancy" ("poin-Yan-cee")
that the cast was able to make a truly humorous performance.
When something is said or written in a straightforward way, it is easy to understand.
When something is said or written in a more indirect or oblique manner, it is best, I think, that you simply accept that the meaning is a general idea.
Here, it is indicated that the performance was rich in humor and a great success.
. The actors and writers can take away all the credit that they have earned.
.